Inpatient Drug Rehab: What It Is and How It Works

Key Takeaways

Addiction is a serious problem that comes with a strong physical or psychological need to use substances. This can hurt not just the person with the problem but also their family and friends.

Fortunately, there are ways to treat addiction. This article will explain what inpatient drug rehab is and how it can help people recover from addiction.

What is Inpatient Drug Rehab?

Inpatient drug rehab is a type of addiction treatment program where people live at a specialized facility for a designated period to receive comprehensive care.

This immersive approach allows people to focus entirely on their recovery in a structured and supportive environment, free from the distractions and triggers of everyday life.

People live at the treatment center for the duration of the program. The timeframe can range from 28 days to several months, depending on their specific needs and the severity of their addiction. 

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How Does Inpatient Drug Rehab Work?

Inpatient drug rehab involves several structured components to ensure a holistic approach to recovery. These include detox, therapy, medication, workshops, and relapse prevention.

The first step for many entering inpatient rehab is detoxification. This process involves clearing the body of addictive substances.

Detox is crucial for substances that can cause severe withdrawal symptoms (alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines). During this process, medical professionals can monitor vital signs and provide medications to ease discomfort and prevent complications.

Therapies Included in Inpatient Rehab

Individual and group therapy sessions are critical for inpatient rehab. During individual therapy sessions, people meet one-on-one with a licensed therapist to explore the underlying causes of their addiction.

These sessions often use evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help people develop coping strategies, address trauma, and modify harmful behaviors.

Group therapy sessions provide a supportive environment, foster a sense of community, and reduce feelings of isolation. People can share their experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges.

A therapist facilitates these sessions, which focus on topics like relapse prevention, stress management, and building healthy relationships.

Medications Used in Inpatient Drug Rehab

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) involves the use of FDA-approved medications. These can include:

• Methadone
• Buprenorphine
• Naltrexone

Medications are used in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies. These help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for people to focus on their recovery.

Other Services Provided in Inpatient Drug Rehab

Educational workshops are an integral part of inpatient rehab. They offer people information about addiction, its effects on the brain and body, and the recovery process. 

These workshops may cover topics such as the science of addiction, nutrition, exercise, and the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle. The goal is to equip people with knowledge and skills to support their long-term recovery.

Relapse prevention planning is also crucial in inpatient rehab. People work with their therapists to identify triggers and high-risk situations that could lead to relapse.

They develop personalized strategies to manage cravings and stress and create a detailed aftercare plan. This includes:

• Ongoing therapy
• Support groups
• Other resources to maintain sobriety after leaving the facility

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What are the Benefits of Inpatient Drug Rehab?

One of the most significant benefits of inpatient drug rehab is the structured and safe environment it provides. People live in a controlled setting where their daily routines are carefully planned and monitored.

This structure helps eliminate the chaos and unpredictability often associated with addiction, allowing people to focus entirely on their recovery.

These are inpatient rehab’s other benefits:

24/7 Medical and Emotional Support

Inpatient facilities offer round-the-clock medical and emotional support from a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and therapists.

This continuous care ensures that any medical complications or emotional crises are promptly addressed, providing people with the stability and reassurance they need during the challenging early stages of recovery.

Freedom from Triggers and Temptations

Living in an inpatient facility removes people from environments and situations that may trigger their addiction, which is crucial for building a strong foundation for long-term sobriety.

Being away from places, people, and circumstances associated with substance use reduces the risk of relapse and allows patients to break free from harmful patterns.

Focus on Intensive Therapy and Recovery

Inpatient rehab programs emphasize intensive therapy and recovery work. People participate in various therapeutic activities, like individual counseling, group therapy, and educational workshops, which are all designed to address the psychological and emotional aspects of addiction.

This focused approach helps people gain a deeper understanding of their addiction and develop strategies for overcoming it.

Development of Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Inpatient rehab provides people with the tools and skills needed to develop healthy coping mechanisms. Through therapy and educational sessions, individuals learn how to manage stress, handle triggers, and navigate life without resorting to substance use.

These coping strategies are essential for maintaining sobriety and leading a balanced, fulfilling life post-rehab.

Costs Associated with Inpatient Drug Rehab

The cost of inpatient drug rehab is a significant concern for many people and families considering this treatment option. Various factors can influence the overall expense, making it essential to understand what contributes to the cost and explore available financial assistance options.

These are some of the factors influencing rehab costs:

• Rehab facilities in urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living tend to be more expensive than those in rural areas
• Facilities in popular or desirable locations may charge higher rates.
• Programs can range from 28 days to several months, with longer stays generally costing more.
• Luxury rehab centers with high-end accommodations will be more expensive than standard facilities.

Financial Assistance Options

While the cost of inpatient drug rehab can be daunting, several resources are available to help manage expenses:

• Insurance: Many health insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of addiction treatment, including inpatient rehab. Check with your insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage, including any co-pays, deductibles, or out-of-pocket expenses.
• Scholarships and grants: Some rehab facilities offer scholarships or grants to help offset the cost of treatment for those who qualify. These financial aid options are often based on need and may require an application process.
• Payment plans and sliding-scale fees: Many rehab centers offer flexible payment plans or sliding-scale fees based on income. These plans allow people to spread the cost over time or adjust fees according to their financial situation.
• Government and non-profit programs: Various government programs and non-profit organizations offer funding or subsidies for addiction treatment. Resources such as Medicaid, state-funded rehab programs, and charitable organizations can provide financial assistance to those in need.

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Alternatives to Inpatient Drug Rehab

While inpatient drug rehab is a very effective treatment option, it may not be the best fit for everyone. Fortunately, several alternative forms of addiction treatment can cater to different needs and circumstances. Here are some of the main alternatives:

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient treatment allows people to live at home while receiving care. This type of program is generally less intensive than inpatient rehab but can still provide comprehensive support through various levels of care.

The types of outpatient programs include:

• Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP): These are the most intensive outpatient options, involving 5 to 6 hours of treatment per day, 5 to 6 days a week.
• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP): IOPs require people to attend treatment sessions for about 3 hours per day, 3 to 5 days a week. These programs allow people to gradually reintegrate into their daily lives while receiving substantial support and therapy.
• Standard outpatient programs: These involve fewer hours of treatment per week and are suitable for people with milder substance use disorders.

Support Groups

Support groups offer a community-based approach to recovery, providing emotional and social support from peers who are also recovering. Common support groups include:

• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA): These 12-step programs are widely available and provide a structured approach to recovery through regular meetings and peer support.
• SMART Recovery: An alternative to 12-step programs, SMART Recovery focuses on self-empowerment and uses cognitive-behavioral techniques to help people manage their addiction.

Various other groups cater to specific needs, such as Dual Recovery Anonymous for those with co-occurring mental health disorders and substance use issues.

It’s essential to consider all options and choose the treatment path that best aligns with individual needs and preferences. With the right support and resources, recovery from addiction is possible.

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